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Transfer Admission Requirements

Transfer admission requirements fall 2024, transfer admission guidelines.

All applications receive a holistic review. Admission is competitive and selective. Successful applicants will have a consistently high or upward grade trend, strong cumulative GPA, rigorous coursework, and polished writing skills.

Some admission preferences will be given to two-year campus students. UW System students seeking major programs not available at their current institutions will also receive some preference.

Other Guidelines for Admission Consideration

The Office of Admissions and Recruitment determines admission to the university. Note that admission to the university does not guarantee admission to all majors or professional programs. Admission to the major or professional program may require a separate major declaration or an additional application for admission directly to competitive programs.

Required academic course preparation:

Credits: applicants must have or be in the process of completing 24 semester hours of transferable coursework, excluding AP and test credits.

Math: high school level algebra, plane geometry, and college preparatory math

World Language: 2 high school years or 2 college semesters of a single world language

Minimum GPA Requirements for Admission Consideration to Specific Majors

The Bachelor of Business Administration Program (BBA) has an annual application available during the first two weeks of each March for students interested in enrolling in Undergraduate Business for the ensuing fall term only. Admission decisions are based on the completion of four Pre-Business courses, cumulative GPA, resume, and essay. Admission is competitive due to enrollment limitations. Students will be notified of their acceptance in June, no later than July 1. Students enrolling at UW–Madison, beginning Summer 2021 and forward, will be limited to one application attempt, which must be within their first four enrolled semesters (fall/spring) at UW–Madison. Direct Transfer-eligible students that are admitted and enroll at UW–Madison, but are denied to Business, may apply a second time within their first four enrolled semesters (fall/spring) at UW–Madison if they are otherwise eligible.

Pre-Business prerequisite courses can be completed prior to transferring to UW–Madison. An AP score of ‘4’ or higher or equivalent college coursework (as determined by UW–Madison) will be accepted for these four courses. College course equivalencies can be reviewed using Transferology and should not be assumed as transferrable and equivalent based on course title alone.

Students are advised to review all eligibility requirements and admission policies at the following link: https://business.wisc.edu/undergraduate/admissions/pre-business-policies/#pre-business-admission-eligibility-requirements

Students transferring for spring semester enrollment at UW–Madison must complete a minimum of 12 credits in residence at UW–Madison, as well as any remaining Pre-Business prerequisite courses, during the spring term to be eligible to apply for fall enrollment in the BBA Program. These requirements must be completed or in the process of being completed at the time of application to the BBA Program. In-progress courses must be completed by the end of the application term and cannot be deferred to a later term.

Direct Transfer Admission: (Available for fall semester enrolling transfers only): Students may apply for direct transfer admission into the BBA Program at the same time they apply for admission to UW–Madison if they are transferring from a UW System school (both two and four years) or one of the Wisconsin Technical Colleges for the fall term. Students not enrolled at a UW System School or a Wisconsin Technical college are not eligible for direct transfer admission and must complete 12 credits in residence at UW–Madison before applying to the BBA program in the spring semester. Please note the spring term application deadlines for fall enrollment for both UW–Madison and the Wisconsin School of Business are different. A student cannot be admitted to Undergraduate Business without first being admitted to UW–Madison. Direct Transfer-eligible students that are admitted and enroll at UW–Madison, but are denied to Business, may apply a second time within their first four enrolled semesters at UW–Madison if they are otherwise eligible.

For additional information on the transfer admission process, select “Transfer Students” from this Wisconsin School of Business webpage: https://business.wisc.edu/undergraduate/admissions/

Questions can be directed to our Pre-Business Advisors at [email protected] or 608-262-0471.

Students who have made an informed decision to pursue engineering and have not exceeded the 80 credit limit may apply for transfer admission to the College of Engineering. Individuals who have already earned an undergraduate degree are not eligible to apply.

The College of Engineering has dual degree programs with select four-year UW System campuses including UW–Eau Claire, UW–La Crosse, UW–Oshkosh, UW–River Falls, and UW–Whitewater. Eligible dual degree applicants are not subject to the 80 credit limit.

Transfer students must specify which one of the 13 undergraduate engineering programs they are intending as their first-choice major on the university application. The Office of Admissions and Recruitment evaluates all transfer applications to the College of Engineering and selects students for direct admission in their intended engineering program. Admission is selective and competitive. To be considered for program admission, students must meet the UW–Madison transfer admission requirements and demonstrate success in engineering-related coursework: https://engineering.wisc.edu/admissions/undergraduate/transfer-from-off-campus/

After application:

Soon after notification of admission to the College of Engineering, students will be invited to submit a supplemental application for progression in their intended engineering program. If the application is approved, they may continue in their program needing to fulfill only the graduation requirements after transfer.

Students who do not fulfill the progression requirements before transfer must do so after transfer and within two semesters in residency. They must now also meet engineering major GPA benchmarks: https://engineering.wisc.edu/student-services/undergraduate-student-advising/progression/ . They may then continue fulfilling graduation requirements for their program.

For students admitted to other schools and colleges at UW–Madison, admission to the College of Engineering is a limited enrollment option. Because admission to all programs is competitive and selective, admission is not guaranteed. See the “Cross-Campus Students” section: https://engineering.wisc.edu/admissions/undergraduate/cross-campus-students/

For a more detailed explanation of the transfer admission process to the College of Engineering, see the website for off-campus transfer students: https://engineering.wisc.edu/admissions/undergraduate/transfer-from-off-campus/ . Questions should be directed to the Transfer and Academic Program Manager at [email protected] .

Requires an audition for admission into the Dance degree program. Students must audition prior to admission to enter with a Dance degree designation. Contact the Dance Department  for audition dates and additional information. 2.5 cumulative GPA required. Cumulative GPA also calculated from the last 60 credits for applicants with more than 60 credits.

The undergraduate Teacher Education programs listed below are each considering a change from the current application-based admission process to a declaration-based process. This change means that admission will be open, not limited or competitive. Students completing the declaration criteria (including required courses, GPA, and any deadlines) will just submit a declaration form to major in their desired area. Art Education and Physical Education have implemented this change.

Acceptance is currently based on a combination of GPA and non-academic factors. The cumulative GPA is also calculated from the last 60 credits to determine eligibility. Criteria for consideration to specific programs are listed below.

Although most program areas have stated deadlines, the deadline for any program may be extended if spaces are still available after the initial deadline. This has recently been the case. Students not currently enrolled on the UW–Madison campus must also submit an application to the Office of Admissions and Recruitment following campus transfer deadlines; these are earlier than the program deadline.

For more detailed information regarding application/declaration procedures and the selection process for each program area, see the School of Education section of the campus Guide .

Art Education

Art Education currently accepts declarations once a year, from February 1 – May 1. Declaration currently requires a minimum of 40 total credits by the end of the semester prior to declaration; 20 credits of studio art; 6 credits of aesthetics requirement; 2.75 cumulative GPA; program declaration form; meeting with the Art Education advisor, Dr. Mary Hoefferle, or a School of Education Student Services advisor. Email Dr. Hoefferle directly to set up an appointment at [email protected] . Email [email protected] or call 608-262-1651 to schedule an appointment in Student Services. Prerequisite coursework must be completed by the end of the declaration semester. The declaration period may be extended if spaces are still available after the initial deadline.

Elementary Education

Admission consideration currently requires a minimum of 40 credits earned by the end of the fall semester of the application year; essay(s); resume; program application. Completion of RP&SE 300 by the end of the summer of application year is required for students pursuing the Elementary Education/Special Education dual certification option. Application information is available by October 1, with an initial deadline of February 1. The application period may be extended if spaces are still available after the initial deadline.

Physical Education Teacher Certification Program

Physical Education candidates may apply at any time provided they have a 2.75 cumulative GPA; second year academic standing; and met with a Physical Education or School of Education Student Services advisor (see the Guide page for Physical Education advisor contact information; email [email protected] or call 608-262-1651 to schedule an appointment in Student Services.

Secondary Education: English, Math, Science, Social Studies, World Languages

UW–Madison does not offer undergraduate teacher education programs in these subject areas. Instead, teacher certification is now accomplished at the graduate level, while obtaining a Master’s degree through the Department of Curriculum and Instruction . Students must have completed an undergraduate degree with course work in the relevant subject (usually a major) and will apply during the previous academic year. Candidate applications received prior to December 1 will be reviewed for priority admission. Applications received after December 1 will be reviewed as space allows. See https://uwteach.education.wisc.edu/ for more information.

Special Education

Admission consideration currently requires a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA; program application; written statement of purpose; 40 credits earned by the end of the fall semester of application year; completion of RP&SE 300 by end of summer of the application year. Application information is available by October 1, with an initial deadline of February 1. The application period may be extended if spaces are still available after the initial deadline.

Both the Kinesiology and Physical Education programs have changed from an application-based admission process to a declaration-based process, effective in the fall of 2022. This change means that admission to these programs will be open, not limited or competitive. Students completing the declaration criteria (including required courses, GPA, and any deadlines) will just submit a declaration form to be a Kinesiology or Physical Education major. More detailed information regarding these changes and the declaration process for each program can be found in the School of Education section of the campus Guide .

Kinesiology

Declaration currently requires a 2.75 cumulative GPA; completed prerequisites; declaration form. Prerequisite coursework must be completed by the end of the spring semester of the declaration year. Cumulative GPA also calculated from the last 60 credits to determine eligibility. Kinesiology currently accepts declarations once a year. Application information is available by October 1, with an initial deadline of February 1. The application period may be extended if spaces are still available after the initial deadline.

Physical Education (Teacher Certification) Option

Physical Education candidates may apply at any time provided they have a 2.75 cumulative GPA; second year academic standing; and met with a Physical Education or School of Education Student Services advisor (see the Guide page for Physical Education advisor contact information; email [email protected] or call 608-262-1651 to schedule an appointment in Student Services. Cumulative GPA is also calculated from the last 60 credits to determine eligibility.

The Rehabilitation Psychology program has changed from an application-based admission process to a declaration-based process. This change means that admission to Rehabilitation Psychology will be open, not limited or competitive. Off-campus transfers are admitted directly to the Bachelor of Science–Rehabilitation Psychology degree program at any time.

Admission is based on a portfolio submission including a 550-word essay, official transcripts from transfer institutions, unofficial UW-Madison transcript, and brief survey and a resume. Criteria for admission include completion of JOURN 201 – Introduction to Mass Communication , writing skill, grades and communication-related extracurricular participation. Around 120 students are admitted each fall and spring semester. Non-admitted applicants may be deferred admission to the following semester or may reapply in subsequent semesters. Overall, about 75 percent of applicants are admitted counting subsequent attempts. Transfers must complete one semester at UW–Madison to establish a UW–Madison GPA before admission and may apply during their first semester at UW–Madison for admission the following semester. Students must have earned a minimum of 24 credits either at UW–Madison or via transfer credit from another college degree program and meet journalism course prerequisites before starting the Journalism major. For more information, visit our website . For additional information on the program including alumni testimonials and faculty interviews, please click here .

Journalism majors may not double-major in areas outside the College of Letters & Science, including Art, Business, and majors in Human Ecology such as Design Studies, as this would entail multiple degrees; Journalism students may complete certificates instead in fields outside L&S if available.

The Mead Witter School of Music requires an audition completed in the year prior to admission. See https://music.wisc.edu/undergraduate-admissions/   for audition dates, application deadlines, and additional information. Prospective transfer music students should transfer to UW–Madison as early as possible in their degree program, preferably applying and auditioning during the first year. Transfer students will be declared in their specific major at orientation and will be requirement to continuation requirements. The minimum GPA required for the declaration of major depends on the desired degree program in music. Bachelor of Music degree programs (Performance and Education majors) requires a 2.75 cumulative GPA, 3.00 all-music GPA, and 2.50 theory/history GPA. The liberal arts music major with a performance option requires minimum GPAs of 2.00: cumulative, all-music, and theory/history.

Students must apply for admission to the traditional nursing program in addition to their application to the University of Wisconsin–Madison. The application cycle runs once a year with the application opening in early December and closing mid-January for admission to the program starting the following fall semester. Applicants submit personal information, academic/educational history, work experience, and involvement activities, and several personal statements as part of the BS-Nursing program application. Following an eligibility review, all eligible applicants are required to participate in interviews. While we only admit to the nursing program for the fall term, transfer students can apply for spring admission to UW–Madison and come to campus as a pre-nursing student. Admission to the nursing major is competitive and selective. In a typical year, 350–400 students apply for approximately 160 spots in the incoming cohort. The School of Nursing faculty admissions committee employs a holistic review process that takes into account key factors such as academic performance and preparation, health care experience, leadership, extracurricular/cocurricular and service activities, diversity of experience and background, and personal statements when making admission decisions. The School of Nursing requires a minimum cumulative and prerequisite GPA of 2.75 for application, though the average cumulative and prerequisite GPA of the admitted class trends at 3.5.

In order to be considered for admission to the traditional nursing program, the following academic requirements must be met: (1) complete a minimum of 54 degree credits of previous college-level coursework by the end of the spring semester prior to the fall term of application, (2) with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75 in all college-level coursework at the time of application and at the end of the spring semester prior to fall nursing admission; (3) complete 7 prerequisite courses with a combined GPA of at least 2.75 and least a C (2.0) in each of the individual seven prerequisite courses (Note: four of the seven prerequisites must be complete by the end of the fall semester prior to admission; three of the seven prerequisites can be in-progress during the spring semester prior to admission). All prerequisites must be completed by the end of the spring semester to remain eligible for fall admission. To review the prerequisite courses and additional information on the admissions process, please visit https://nursing.wisc.edu/undergraduate/bsn-traditional/ .

The Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program meets the educational requirement for licensure as a registered pharmacist. The B.S. Pharmacology & Toxicology program, which does NOT meet the educational requirement for licensure as a registered pharmacist, is also offered.

Seventy-two credits of specified pre-pharmacy course work and a variety of non-academic criteria are required for consideration. Admission is competitive because there are more applicants than available spaces in the program. A number of factors are considered when reviewing application materials . To better serve our PharmD applicants, UW–Madison participates in PharmCAS (Pharmacy College Application Service). The PharmCAS application deadline will be in early March for admission in the following fall.

Bachelor of Science, Pharmacology & Toxicology

Sixty credits of specified prerequisite course work and a major-specific application are required for consideration. Admission is competitive for this junior-senior curricular sequence. A number of factors are considered ; academic achievement is the central criterion. All materials must be submitted by early February for admission in the following fall. This application is in addition to the UW–Madison admission application. Transfer students may apply to enter both UW–Madison and the major for the same fall semester (providing all prerequisites will be met with transfer coursework), or, may apply to UW–Madison and start in a different school/college while completing the rest of their prerequisite coursework and apply to the major at a later time.

Admittance to both programs is for fall semester entrance only.

Please note that application deadlines and other information are subject to change. For the most current information and/or application materials, please consult our website at pharmacy.wisc.edu or contact the Student & Academic Affairs Office via email ( [email protected] ) or phone (608-262-6234).

Anticipated Application Deadlines/Priority Dates

Priority Decision Deadline: February 1, 2024 Regular Decision Deadline: March 1, 2024

Registration Dates

All admitted transfer students are required to attend SOAR (Student Orientation, Advising, and Registration) to register. SOAR will be offered before fall enrollment. Information about SOAR dates will be provided after the offer of admission.

Special Information

Admission requirements and dates may be modified because of changing enrollment demands.

Special Note for UW System Transfer Applicants (option)

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Student’s guide to college tours.

Visiting a college campus can help you get a better feel for what your life could be like at college. There is a lot to consider, and it can be overwhelming. This guide will help you prepare for and get the most out of your college tours.

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College Admitted Student Days: What to Know

These events are chances to get in-person experiences and information at a college before making a final decision.

College Admitted Student Days

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Participating in an Admitted Student Day event is a great way to kickstart an informed and social college experience.

Key Takeaways

• Admitted student days are a chance to see what life on campus is like.
• They're a valuable time to get practical information and ease the college transition.
• Families are welcomed and there are virtual options.

Each spring, colleges hold admitted student days exclusively for accepted students. It's a chance for them and their families to ask questions of faculty, meet current students and future classmates, learn about programs and see what life on campus is like.

Admitted student days usually are held before the acceptance and deposit deadlines, so it’s a mixed group – students who have already accepted an offer and those still deciding.

What Happens on Admitted Student Days?

Admitted student days may be a full or half day and while some colleges set an agenda, many leave lots of space for a more personalized experience.

Iowa State University ’s admitted student days start with a kickoff celebration followed by a "college connections fair," then students spend the rest of the day choosing the experiences they need, says Erica Fischer, the school's director for enrollment marketing.

Students may attend mock classes during admitted student days at Bates College in Maine and also learn about academic support services, study abroad opportunities and co-curricular and extracurricular activities , says Leigh Weisenburger, Bates' vice president for enrollment and dean of admission and financial aid.

Admitted student days are a time for students to ask more targeted questions and get detailed practical information – like how to apply for housing and choose meal plans , how orientation works, and how to access health services and disability support. They can also plan the specifics of their college transition and future studies, explore the city or town and celebrate their acceptance.

Detailed financial aid sessions offered on these days also help students make more informed decisions on how to pay for college .

Students who haven't made a final decision can focus on the factors that will help them decide which college best meets their academic and personal needs.

By providing opportunities to connect with both academic and nonacademic features of the school, admitted student days are a "one-stop shop" to integrate students into all aspects of an institution, says Christie Smith, associate vice president for undergraduate admissions at Nazareth University in New York.

Nazareth's admitted student days include faculty and student engagement, campus tours and opportunities to form connections with current students.

“These programs are designed to help students and their families decide if this is really the place they see themselves pursuing their academic journey," Smith says.

Should Families Attend Admitted Student Days?

Colleges strongly encourage parents, guardians and other family member to attend admitted student days.

“We want the family members – the support system for students – to join in,” Fischer says. “We know that parents and family members play a huge part in Gen Z's decision-making process, so absolutely we encourage them to attend, to bring guests with them and join them throughout the day.”

Smith observes that “more and more students are leaning into their parents, and parents have really become the number-one decision factor for students and making the overall decision on what institutions they will attend, so they play a huge influence.”

Some colleges set a specific number of guests a student may bring to admitted student days, and some require registration, so be sure to check the details and secure your place before making travel arrangements.

What Should You Wear to Admitted Student Days? 

Student should come as their authentic selves, Smith says. Because it's a full day, students should be comfortable – and while there's no dress code, sneakers are recommended because there's so much walking.

However, schools provide transportation if needed, especially for long distances between campus destinations.

What if You Can’t Attend?

Many students can't make it to admitted student days. For example, Bates’ most recent admitted student day drew about 25% of admitted students.

However, Smith says the majority of students who have already submitted a deposit and committed to the school do attend.

Colleges have virtual options for students and families to connect with admitted student days – especially useful for those who live far from the college where they've committed, and those who are still considering several colleges . They also offer virtual tours and virtual orientations.

"But I will say, it can never replace the in-person, face-to-face admitted student programs," Smith says.

Some schools offer virtual ask-me-anything sessions, which answer questions specific to academics, like how to transfer high school AP credits to college credits, and practical questions like how the furniture is set up in the college’s dorms , Weisenburger says.

“Students should recognize they’ve already been admitted, so you can put that sort of anxiety behind you since it’s truly a celebratory moment,” she says. “It's really the students' moment where, you know, we've chosen them and then they get to choose us. They're really in the driver's seat in that way, so it's a fun, exciting, celebratory time.”

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Madison College students can participate in UW’s Language Institutes

Summer can be a wonderful time to learn something new. For those interested in learning a foreign language, there are opportunities beyond Madison College classrooms for students. Madison College has classes in some of the most widely spoken languages worldwide: Spanish, French, Mandarin, Arabic and American Sign Language. However, with several thousand languages spoken worldwide, it is impossible to cater to every individual student’s language learning needs. For people who want to learn a less common language, the University of Wisconsin Madison hosts summer sessions through its Wisconsin Intensive Summer Language Institutes (WISLI). WISLI is a fast-paced program that covers a year’s worth of foreign language course content in an eight-week summer session. The program includes beginner, intermediate and sometimes advanced courses in less frequently taught languages such as Lao, Bengali, and Uzbek. Classes meet for several hours daily, typically in the mornings. WISLI usually starts midsummer, and for 2024 runs from June 17 through Aug. 9. Within the larger institute are seven smaller programs focusing on specific regions in the world. Of these, Madison College has a good standing relationship with SASLI (South Asian languages) and with MEDLI (Middle Eastern languages). Courses from these two programs count for the required study abroad credits in Madison College’s interdisciplinary global studies certificate. In addition, the MATC Gateway Scholarship covers nearly the full tuition cost for Madison College students taking courses within MEDLI. The priority deadline for the summer of 2024 has passed, but some programs will continue to accept applicants on a rolling basis until all spots are filled. The application deadline for the MATC Gateway Scholarship is May 15. To learn more about specific programs, course availability, and application materials, visit the WISLI webpage or contact Mary Haight, the advisor for Madison College’s Interdisciplinary Global Studies Certificate.

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Syttende Mai Festival 2024

Beers with Queers

• Presented By: Cheshire Cat Comedy
• Dates: June 28, 2024
• Location: Breese Stevens Field
• Time: 9:30 PM to 11:00 PM
• Price: $15 Advance | $20 DOS | $5 cash with student ID

FRIDAY, JUNE 28: A riotous evening of stand-up comedy at the outdoor bar and performance space overlooking Breese Stevens Field! With stand-up performances by all-queer cast of comedians including host Michael Kittelson (Milwaukee), featured comic Izzy Salhani (Chicago), and headliner Emma Dalenberg (Minneapolis). A true heavy hitter at 6 feet and one inch tall, Emma Dalenberg approaches her sets with good vibes and a genuine love to connect with audiences of all backgrounds. Beginning her career at 19 years old in Minneapolis, she has since toured all over the United States and through five European countries, at venues ranging from packed theaters and clubs to small-town dive bars and bowling alleys. She is a paid regular at the nationally renowned Acme Comedy Club; was voted “Racket Magazine’s 2022 Minnesota Comic to Watch”; has been twice featured in the Minnesota Star Tribune; has opened for Michael Che, Dave Attell, and Big Jay Oakerson; and–perhaps most impressively–got deported from Germany in December of 2022. Now, Emma is focused on developing her act across the country, returning to Europe for her “American Cream” Tour, and is bringing Riffs, a stand-up jazz collaboration, to life with a group of notable jazz musicians and Minneapolis comics. Still in her mid-twenties, Emma has a lot of growing to do, but at least emotional growth doesn’t hurt your knees. She's proud to have come up from her Midwestern trailer park beginnings and be a broke world traveler, with a good handful of subversive jokes, goofy stories, and intercultural observations to share. ---------- June 28, 2024 Doors open at 9PM Show starts at 9:30PM Breese Stevens Field 917 E Mifflin St Madison, WI 53703 Enter the performance and bar area at Gate 6 ----------- Tickets $15 advance, $20 day of show. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/beers-with-queers-a-comedy-show-tickets-852562305807 SPECIAL DISCOUNT FOR UW STUDENTS: $5 cover with a UW student ID! CASH ONLY. RSVP on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/312870175137551/ ----------- Recommended for ages 18+. Lineup subject to change. We do not offer refunds, but if you purchase a ticket and are unable to attend, please contact Cheshire Cat Comedy at [email protected] to redeem for free admission to a future show of your choice.

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We encourage you to visit our beautiful campus and explore our facilities as you consider applying to the College of Engineering. Please be advised that academic advisers are not able to meet with prospective students individually.

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For admitted students

Admitted student day.

The UW Office of Admissions welcomes admitted students to campus during designated preview days. If you are admitted to the College of Engineering, you will be invited to attend an Admitted Student Day in the spring where you can learn about what it means to be an engineering student at the UW. If you have been admitted to the College of Engineering, register early for the preview day.

Purple & Gold Experience

The UW invites newly admitted students of color to learn about programs that promote success, interact with current UW students, and learn about academic majors, support services, and social/cultural happenings on campus. The College of Engineering participates in many of the resource fairs.

Getting to the College

The College of Engineering main office is in Loew Hall, across Stevens Way from the Husky Union Building and less than a half-mile from the UW light rail station.

Front desk address: 371 Loew Hall Seattle, WA 98195-2180 (206) 543-0340

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UW System President Rothman says encampments are illegal and 'ultimately will be gone'

Leaders at the University of Wisconsin-Madison said campus police will not clear the encampment, as they did Wednesday, as long as "productive discussions" with student protest organizers continue.

Hundreds of people, mostly students, are calling for UW-Madison and UW-Milwaukee to divest from companies with ties to Israel. The standoff between student protesters and college administrators over tents mirrors a  national conflict that is growing increasingly confrontational .

Pro-Palestinian demonstrators have vowed to remain for as long as it takes until schools meet their demands. University leaders are balancing students’ right to protest with a desire to minimize disruptions to their campuses and enforce a state rule banning encampments.

Follow our live coverage of the protests at UW-Madison and UW-Milwaukee as they near the one-week mark.  See our coverage from days one and two ,  day three and four .

11:00 a.m. Protesters and administration haven't met yet Sunday, discussion planned to "escalate" demands to university

The UW-Madison encampment was quiet Sunday morning, with no police in sight and students eating breakfast near the food tent. About 50 tents were on Library Mall, more than the earlier days of the protest before police removed them and protesters put them back up.

An organizer told media that protestors had not met with administration since yesterday, and that the university was working to schedule another meeting.

Organizers planned to meet Sunday evening for a discussion with as many people as possible to "strategize and build collective consensus on escalation tactics to move forward our demands with the university."

Administrators and UW System President Jay Rothman have said in the last two days that at least one student demand is off the table: removing university police departments from campus.

Elsewhere on Library Mall, 16 red and pink dresses were hung on rope between trees for Red Dress Day, which is typically recognized on May 5 in Canada to raise awareness of missing and murdered Indigenous women. The display did not appear affiliated with the encampment.

More: Rally at Wisconsin Capitol calls for end to 'epidemic' of violence against Indigenous women, girls

9:45 a.m. UW System President Rothman says encampments are illegal and "ultimately will be gone"

In a pre-taped Sunday morning interview on WISN-TV's "Upfront," UW System President Jay Rothman said the encampments are illegal and "ultimately will be gone."

Rothman said he supported UW-Madison Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin's decision to authorize police removing the encampment on Wednesday. Asked why the response was not similar at UW-Milwaukee, Rothman said chancellors have authority to decide how to take action on different campuses.

He claimed clashes and confrontations with police were instigated by protestors. The Journal Sentinel reported Wednesday that police broke a chain of protestors, shoved protesters to the ground and hit people in heads with their shields. A UWPD spokesman said protestors pushed back while officers tried to take camping equipment, with some interactions turning violent.

Rothman said there are "good reasons" why encampments are illegal, including a lack of sanitary facilities and students staying overnight in populated areas. Rothman said it is a "health and safety issue."

Rothman also said protestors' demand to remove police from campus is "ludicrous" and a "non-starter." He added that the divestment issue is a "red herring."

"The university police do a terrific job in ensuring the safety of our students. They're absolutely essential," he said.

Asked whether police could be brought back, Rothman said "every option has to be on the table. At the end of the day, the encampments are there illegally. And they need to come down."

7:00 p.m. UW-Madison leadership says police won't clear encampment as long as discussions continue

On Saturday night, UW-Madison leaders released an update , saying they would not ask campus police to again clear the encampment as long as productive conversations continue with student protest organizers.

They added police would intervene in "the event of a public safety concern or an emergency."

Saturday marked the fourth meeting between administrators and protest organizers, and UW-Madison said the talks lasted more than an hour. Campus leaders have agreed to another meeting with organizers.

Students proposed bringing a set of guidelines about UW Foundation investments, but campus leaders said they made no commitments because the foundation is a separate, independent nonprofit.

The administration said there was no discussion in the meeting about a ceasefire statement or cutting ties with Israel. Campus leaders said removing the UW-Madison Police Department from campus was not an option.

2:00 p.m. Protestors leave Bascom Hall and head back to UW-Madison encampment

A group of protesters sat outside of Bascom Hall Saturday afternoon while their leadership and UW officials met inside. The protesters involved in the meeting left the building around 2 p.m.

Graduates also gathered around Bascom Hall, taking photos on the iconic hill leading up to the building. Some climbed the Abraham Lincoln statue despite the protesters sitting at the base. Those involved in the encampment declined to speak with reporters.

Saturday afternoon also brought a group of Jewish counter-protesters. Kara Silver, who has a daughter at UW-Madison, said she flew in from New Jersey to ensure her child and friends had support during a tense time on campus.

Silver said chancellors across the country are negotiating with protesters but have failed to have Jewish voices at the table. A group of students with a banner reading "No negotiations without Jewish representation" stood behind her, though the group did not include her daughter.

"These kids behind me are champions. They are champions for peace in the United States, they are champions for Jewish people, and are champions for our country," she said. "And they are brave, very brave."

11:30 a.m. Veterans for Peace speak at UWM encampment

A crowd of a few dozen people gathered as Veterans for Peace addressed those in the UWM encampment just before 11:30 a.m. Saturday.

Keith Brumley, president of the Milwaukee chapter of Veterans for Peace, told those gathered that the group was there to "support your cause and your principled and courageous stand for peace in Gaza."

He called for a ceasefire and condemned both the Oct. 7 attack on Israel from which hostages have yet to be released and Israel's "relentless, dehumanizing and indiscriminate violence in Gaza."

A schedule for the remainder of the day included three teach-ins.

Audari Tamayo, 21, estimated at least 100 people remained at the encampment sharing about 40 to 50 tents.

He said events Friday night included an interfaith vigil.

Organizers in Milwaukee are in close contact with those in Madison, he said.

He said protesters would stay until their demands are met.

10:15 a.m.: UW-Milwaukee, Madison encampments quiet Saturday morning

The encampment at UWM was quiet Saturday morning.

A small number of people milled around inside the barriers made of overturned tables and plywood that surrounded the two dozen-plus tents visible from the corner of East Kenwood Boulevard and North Downer Avenue.

Food had been set out just behind an opening in the barriers, though the table looked largely untouched.

No one was immediately available to speak to a reporter.

The UW-Madison encampment also remained quiet Saturday morning. Organizers released a full schedule for the day, which will include activities for children, several teach-ins and an open mic at 9 p.m. that focuses on centering Palestinian voices.

Leadership of the "Liberated Zone," are scheduled to meet at 12:30 p.m. with Mnookin and members of administration.

5:30 p.m.: UW-Madison remains open to meeting Saturday

University leaders said Friday they remained open to meeting at noon Saturday with protesters.

"We believe that today’s meeting ended productively, and that it makes sense for us to continue engaging with each other," the note from UW-Madison Provost Charles Isbell, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Lori Reesor and Senior Vice Provost for Academic Affairs John Zumbrunnen said in a message to protesters . "As we look around the country at how events have unfolded at universities in Los Angeles and New York, we certainly hope that we can find a better path forward here in Madison."

Protesters earlier Friday rejected a Saturday meeting saying it would be pointless without the UW Foundation disclosing more information on its investments.

The University Committee, a group of professors who regularly meet with administrators, called for deliberation in good faith.

"The parties must continue their discussions with the aim of peacefully coming to a speedy resolution acceptable to all those involved, as difficult as that might be," the statement said.

5:15 p.m.: UWM protesters double-down on demands

Friday ended with little, if any, movement in negotiations between UW-Milwaukee and protesters.

The two parties have yet to directly negotiate with each other, according to the demonstrators.

A university statement said administrators "are having conversations with students and community members in the background."

The UWM Foundation also released a statement , which said none of its bond investments include weapons manufacturers or investments with governments in the Middle East. The statement also said the foundation cannot select what stocks or other investments are included in its equity mutual funds.

Protest leaders said the encampment was in for the long haul.

"If that's their plan to just kind of wait us out, this is a message to the university that we have teams that are actively working on ways to put more and more pressure on the university," Muslim Student Association board member Ameen Atta said Friday. "So we're not going to sit here to picnic and if they decide to ignore us, we're just going to be OK with it."

12 p.m.: Negotiations between UW-Madison students and leadership broke down Friday

Friday morning, protesters gathered for another update on negotiations with UW-Madison leadership. A group from the encampment met with the Provost, the vice provost, and the vice chancellor for student affairs at 8:30 a.m. Friday, but no consensus was reached. 

"They offered a longer negotiations meeting with lawyers present, so that we could come to an agreement, but one of our student negotiators pointed out that the meeting would be pointless without disclosure of the UW Foundation's investments" said Jules, who uses a pseudonym.

"Students remain firm, the only way to move this forward is our goal of divestment and disclosure, which we've always said. 

UW leadership refused to commit to not sending in officers again this weekend. Jules said the goal was to have the encampment gone in time for finals next week, but students say that is unlikely. Protesters also emphasized that the longer the encampment goes on, the more it impacts the students involved. 

"We're going to be here today, and we're gonna be here all day in solidarity. We're going to be here all night, and this weekend," said Viggy, who declined to provide a last name. "They've tried to paint us outside agitators, but we're students, we are community members, we are faculty. We are UW-Madison."

10 a.m.: Breakdown of arrests at UW-Madison released, most released without citation

About three-fourths of the 34 people arrested Wednesday when police broke up the illegal encampment were part of the campus community.

Eighteen of those arrested were students, seven were faculty or staff, and nine were not affiliated with UW-Madison, according to university police spokesperson Marc Lovicott. 

Most of the people were released without a citation, according to UW-Madison police. Four were were booked into the Dane County Jail. One of the the four was a student and the others weren't affiliated with UW-Madison, Lovicott said.

9 a.m.: UW-Madison encampment quiet Friday morning

At the UW-Madison encampment, all was quiet as of 8:30 Friday morning. Those staying in the encampment milled about, chatting and enjoying the sun after a rainy Thursday night. Some gathered in the food tent for breakfast, while others redid the chalk along the sidewalks. 

Meanwhile, UW students passed by the group of tents with only a brief glance on the way to class. 

Leadership at the encampment said there will be an announcement, likely regarding the second meeting between protest leadership and UW officials, at 11 a.m. this morning. They were unable to provide any more details. 

The schedule for those camping today includes morning art-making, a guest speaker and a liberation Shabbat Friday evening. 

In a chat providing updates on the encampment, there was also a call to support those who are facing felony charges following Wednesday's clash with police. According to information from the chat, those who were arrested will have a hearing at 1:30 p.m. 

8:45 a.m.: Encampments at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee quiet Friday morning

Student protestors are just waking up at UWM. About 40 tents sit on the lawn outside Mitchell Hall. Occasionally, cars honk at them as they drive by. Unlike many schools across the country, students say they’ve largely been undisturbed.A few students, who have jobs as baristas, were handing out free coffee and lattes within the camp to the protesters as they woke up. The menu included vanilla lavender carmel lattes and raspberry mochas, as well as regular coffee.Students slept in the tents through last night’s rain, but many said it wasn’t so bad since they have water proof tents.Today, the camp plans to participate in prayer with the Islamic Society of Milwaukee and later with Jewish Voices for Palestine. Two teach-ins are also on the daily itinerary. In their free time, students say they’ve been studying from the camp.

Students said some are leaving the camp and going to class during the day. Others study from the camp. Friday morning, two students sat on benches within the camp on laptops. Another sat inside a tent reading a book.A few students said they plan to keep the camp up through finals week if allowed.Additionally, the Emile H. Mathis art gallery entrance is open to students within the camp. They’ve been coming in and out throughout the morning. The entrance is within the camp “fence.”

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With the need for nurses at crisis level, new apprentice program launches in Madison

A job working at Madison-based UW Health while attending nursing school at Madison College. Full-time benefits and salaries. Paid time-off to attend classes. Free college tuition, books and supplies.

That's the offer on the table for those aspiring to earn a nursing degree through a recently announced, first-of-its-kind apprenticeship program in Wisconsin launching this fall. The program is designed specifically to address staffing shortages in Wisconsin that Rudy Jackson, UW Health's chief nurse executive, said have reached "crisis levels."

Apprentices will earn an associate degree in nursing through Madison College while working at UW Health hospital during the four-year program. Upon graduation and successful completion of the state boards, the apprentices will be hired as nurses by the UW.

“We need more nurses – it’s that simple,” Jackson said. “That means we need to create a supportive path for future nurses to join this rewarding profession.”

A looming shortage of Wisconsin nurses has reached its 'tipping point,' new hospital workforce report says

The first cohort will consist of 16 certified nursing assistants and medication assistants currently working at UW Health. Applications and testing for the first apprenticeship cohort are taking place this spring. Future cohorts will include external candidates, with cohort sizes dependent on the availability of resources and staff at Madison College and UW Health.

The program is designed specifically to support racially, ethnically and socio-economically diverse healthcare personnel.

"The program has the ability to make our workforce look more like the community it serves," Dr. Alan Kaplan, CEO of UW Health, said Thursday at an event announcing the program.

'These are not ordinary times in the healthcare industry.'

If applications to the UW-Madison School of Nursing are any indication, waitlists are the norm rather than the exception for those trying to get into nursing schools.

Megan Hinners, spokesperson for the School of Nursing, said the goal is to admit approximately 160 bachelor's degree nursing students a year. The number of applications the school receive varies from year to year, but, in general, it receives two to three applications for every spot, with enrollment limited by several factors, including faculty and clinical placement capacity.

The earn-while-you-learn model is made possible through an undisclosed "generous financial gift" from Epic, the Verona-based medical records company, to Wisconsin Medicine, the philanthropic arm of UW Health and the UW School of Medicine and Public Health. UW Health, in turn, teamed up with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development and Madison College to make the apprenticeship program a reality.

Hundreds of University of Wisconsin Health nurses vote to strike if union not recognized; hospital says action 'will harm patients'

Dr. Jack Daniels, Madison College president, acknowledged apprenticeship programs typically are not associated with the healthcare industry.

"But these are not ordinary times in the healthcare industry," Daniels said Thursday.

Wisconsin currently faces a deficit of more than 8,000 healthcare positions across the state, with 3,500 of them in the Madison area. That shortage could swell to a deficit of 20,000 nurses in Wisconsin by 2040, according to Amy Pechacek, secretary-designee of the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development. The healthcare workforce is retiring at a rapid clip and those openings are not being filled, according to a 2022 report  from the Wisconsin Hospital Association. For example, vacancy rates for registered nurse positions more than doubled from 2020 to 2021, the data show. Some hospitals were offering  signing bonuses , upwards of $10,000, to compete for the shrinking pool of healthcare workers. 

But vacancies persist, and both patients and healthcare workers notice.

In the past year, current and former doctors and nurses at Milwaukee's Ascension Columbia St. Mary's Hospital anonymously contacted the media to detail staffing shortages that they said made them fear for patient safety. And UW Health nurses working to organize a union cited ongoing staffing shortages and high turnout of experienced nurses as reasons they wanted union bargaining power.

Nurses overworked, doctors disgusted, patients unattended: Inside Columbia St. Mary's

"There has never been a more critical time to be innovative, forward thinking and committed to those aspiring to become nurses," Daniels said. "Now, they have both a pathway and a partner."

Jessica Van Egeren is Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's enterprise health reporter. She can be reached at [email protected].